Njord Olam – Hand-forged Bushcraft Knife – 25 cm – Rosewood

The Njord Olam is a technically advanced, “no-nonsense” bushcraft knife, designed for users who rely on their gear in demanding outdoor situations. Inspired by the functional tools of the Viking Age, this knife combines a solid construction with traditional materials. Whether you’re working with wood, preparing game, or tackling general survival tasks, the Olam offers the necessary heft and sharpness for any challenge in the wilderness.

The Olam is constructed from materials selected for their mechanical strength and reliability:

- Blade: Crafted from hand-forged carbon steel. This type of steel is known for its toughness and ability to achieve a very sharp edge.
- Hardness: With a hardness of 57 Rockwell (HRC), the blade offers an excellent balance between edge retention and the ease of resharpening in the field.
- Handle: Crafted from rosewood, a dense and durable wood species. The ergonomic shape features pronounced finger grooves for superior grip.
- Finish: The handle is treated with a traditional blend of beeswax and linseed oil for natural protection against moisture.

This model stands out for its robust geometry and ergonomic design:

- Durable All-Rounder: The 12.5 cm blade is thick and sturdy, making the knife suitable for heavier bushcraft tasks such as batoning (splitting wood) or making feather sticks.
- Maximum Control: The deep finger grooves in the rosewood handle ensure that the knife remains stable in your hand even during powerful cutting motions or in wet conditions.
- Traditional Protection: The knife comes with a sturdy, handmade black leather sheath. The integrated belt loop ensures safe transport and immediate access during your excursions.
- Viking-Inspired Aesthetics: The rough finish of the hand-forged steel, combined with the dark rosewood, gives the knife an authentic and timeless look.

Due to the use of carbon steel, the Njord Olam requires specific maintenance:

- Corrosion prevention: Carbon steel is not stainless. Clean the blade after each use and dry it immediately. Moisture and acids from food can cause oxidation.
- Oiling: Regularly apply a thin layer of acid-free oil (such as Ballistol or mineral oil) to the steel to form a protective barrier against rust.
- Wood care: To keep the rosewood handle supple and prevent it from drying out, you can periodically rub it with linseed oil or a high-quality wood wax.
- Sharpening: Use a whetstone to maintain the edge. Carbon steel is relatively easy to sharpen to a razor-sharp finish.

The Njord Olam Bushcraft Knife is a technically sound tool that excels in strength and simplicity. The combination of hand-forged carbon steel and the ergonomic handle with finger grooves makes this a reliable tool for the serious bushcrafter. The objective verdict is that, thanks to its robust construction and included leather sheath, the Olam offers excellent value for money for anyone looking for a powerful and authentic knife for adventures in nature.